Hey everyone, I'm a shiny new PA12 owner, but I've been enjoying the forums for a while in doing my research...

Made the credit card people very happy today at the Ottawa Outdoor Adventure show and reserved my boat and cart for pickup as soon as I have my trailer sorted out - but that's for another thread!

Back on topic - The PA 12 has a wonderful little nook for a Lowrance transducer, and the wiring videos are nice. I should be able to get it set up without too much blood and swearing... But the BIG question is - What model should I use?

I'd appreciate any recommendations from the Lowrance lovers and even the haters... As I'm just getting started I don't see too many major mods or jerry-rigging projects in my immediate future, so I'm looking for an option that's reasonably priced, and pilot-proof.

we are waiting on the new elite 7 models to be delivered any day now. tick tock. tick tock. moving to the elite 7, from the elite 5. the 7 is bigger--wider. i do love the horizontal screen, but im nervous about the overall size in the kayak. honestly, i think you are hard pressed to find a better unit than the elite 5. big, bright screen. all the features of the big boys, but in a kayak friendly size. and the ram-mount that fits the e5 makes mounting options off the chain.

I'd opt for a mid-sized unit, depending upon how much you rely on your electronics bigger is usually better. I run the other brand, an 898SI HD unit and it's not too big, just right for me. My buddy runs a 998 SI unit, that's about as big as you would want on a kayak. If your budget allows it, go for something in the 7" to 8" range and be done with it. I started with a 5" unit and it was just too small a screen when you split them for DI, SI, GPS or 2D multiple views. I would also recommend something with down image capability, it's so much better than 2D in most instances. If your budget allows, then add GPS and side image also. Be certain to get a decent battery, those color units draw a lot of power.

You got that right! I saw it in person this past weekend and it really isn't that big relative to your forward casting angles. It is tucked away just right for how Justin fishes. I am considering one myself now.

I also have the Lowrance Elite 7 HDI finder. May I ask what amp hour your batteries are and how long a charge will typically last? I have yet to test mine on a full days trip and was wondering. Thanks.

I also have the Lowrance Elite 7 HDI finder. May I ask what amp hour your batteries are and how long a charge will typically last? I have yet to test mine on a full days trip and was wondering. Thanks.

I have the same elite 7 unit and I'm getting 10 hrs from a 10ah battery.